'Tis the Season to Sell Your Home

When the time comes to put your home on the market, many sellers think they should wait until after the holidays. However, Houlihan & O’Malley Real Estate Services in Bronville, NY, reports that there are some unexpected advantages to listing your home now rather than waiting until the New Year.

1. Motivated Buyers

There may be fewer buyers looking, but those who are tend to be very motivated. Homes often sell faster during the holidays, and for more money. Plus, there’s always that buyer who wants to give the ultimate gift to a loved one - a new home!

2. Less Competition

Because the holidays can be hectic, sellers often feel they can’t handle trying to show their home while juggling everything else. Sellers often take the home off the market or wait until the New Year to put it on the market. This means that supply drops significantly, making the remaining houses on the market that much more attractive to buyers.

3. Top Notch, Faster Service

The stores may be packed, but your Realtor, title companies, banks, and lenders are probably not as busy, so you’re much more likely to be top priority. In addition, many potential homebuyers have time off from work during the holidays, giving them ample time to search for their new home.

4. Lower Interest Rates

Historically, interest rates are cyclically lower from December through January, making it a more appealing time to buy. Plus, the Fed has held interest rates at zero for nearly six years, and projections for 2016 show that these rates will increase.

5. Your Home Looks Beautiful

You can take advantage of the season by making your home warm and inviting with cheerful, tasteful holiday decorations and festive aromas, such as vanilla and spiced cider simmering on the stove or freshly baked cookies just out of the oven. This will appeal to the emotions of buyers, leaving them with a memorable impression.

Realtors report that the last week of November and the beginning of December have been surprisingly busy weeks with new contracts getting signed! Please contact us if we can be of assistance in placing your home on the market this holiday season: 914.337.788 or houlihanomalley.com